Sandbags

Sandbags are one of the most popular devices for keeping floodwater out of our homes

Usage

Sandbags may help keep floodwater out of your home as part of your flood plan. They can be used to block doorways, drains and other openings to properties and are useful in diverting shallow flowing water that has somewhere else to go, or deflecting waves caused in shallow water by passing vehicles.

However, they are not waterproof and will not keep the water out indefinitely.

If you have not been able to buy sandbags in advance, you can use alternatives like pillowcases or refuse sacks and fill them with garden soil. Sand and sandbags are available at most builders' merchants and larger DIY stores. Some merchants may also deliver sandbags to you at an additional charge.

For further guidance, download the Environment Agency Guide which provides some useful tips and diagrams to help you to use the sandbags effectively as possible.

How we can help

Although we do not have a statutory duty to provide sandbags, we can provide empty sandbags to help residents prepare for flooding and will support our residents if their home is in immediate danger.

If you think your home is in immediate danger of flooding, please call us on 01303 853000 (office hours) or 01303 221888 out of normal office hours.

Collection points

You can collect free empty sandbags at any of the following collection points: